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Nurse with a jar of medicinal leeches C018 / 2317
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Nurse with a jar of medicinal leeches C018 / 2317
Medicinal leeches (Hirudo medicinalis) in a tank of water. Leeches are parasites that feed on blood. They attach themselves to the skin using suckers and create a wound with three sharp jaw plates, which contain over 600 teeth. Their saliva contains hirudin, a chemical which prevents blood from clotting. Leeches are used in modern medicine to drain blood from haematomas (accumulations of blood) and to draw blood into transplanted tissues until circulation is established. Photographed in Kaliningrad, Russia, in 2012
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9208785
© RIA NOVOSTI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
2012 Alternative Medicine Anticoagulant Blood Sucker Bloodsucker Healing Leech Leeches Medicinal Nurse Parasite Parasitic Russia Russian Surgery Surgical Therapy Treatment
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a nurse delicately holding a jar filled with medicinal leeches. The image captures the essence of both nature and medicine, as these fascinating creatures are known for their parasitic behavior and unique healing properties. Medicinal leeches, scientifically known as Hirudo medicinalis, thrive in a tank of water within the photograph. These blood-sucking parasites attach themselves to human skin using suckers and create wounds with their three sharp jaw plates that house an astonishing 600 teeth. Remarkably, their saliva contains hirudin, a chemical that prevents blood from clotting. In modern medicine, leeches play an essential role in various treatments. They are utilized to drain accumulated blood (haematomas) and facilitate circulation in transplanted tissues until it is fully established. This alternative therapy has proven effective over time. Photographed in Kaliningrad, Russia back in 2012 by RIA NOVOSTI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY, this image offers insight into the world of surgical biology and medical practices involving these remarkable creatures. It highlights the crucial role played by nurses who handle such unconventional methods to promote healing. Overall, this visually striking print encapsulates the intriguing intersection between science and nature while shedding light on the extraordinary capabilities of medicinal leeches within modern medicine's therapeutic landscape.
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